Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso has been rearrested in South Africa, just weeks after being acquitted of multiple rape and human trafficking charges.
Authorities confirmed that the 66-year-old pastor was taken into custody early Saturday morning in East London.
The arrest was carried out by officials from the Department of Home Affairs’ immigration inspectorate, in collaboration with the South African Police Service and the Tactical Response Team.
Omotoso, the founder of Jesus Dominion International Church, was initially arrested in 2017 and faced 32 charges, including rape, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking.
Several young women had testified that he selected them from his congregation—some while they were still students—and abused them under the guise of prayer.
After spending nearly nine years in custody awaiting trial, Omotoso was acquitted last month of all charges and released.
However, National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola stated that his latest arrest is linked to immigration violations.
“He was arrested this morning around 5 a.m. as he was leaving the church,” Masemola said.
“He will appear in court on Monday, where the exact immigration-related charges will be made public.”
Further details on his immigration status are expected during his court appearance.